A general physician is a medical practitioner who does not specialise in one particular area of medicine. General physicians provide routine health care (e.g., physical examinations, immunizations) and assess and treat many different conditions, including illnesses and injuries. General physicians often have regular, long-term patients and provide ongoing medical care to both male and female patients in all age groups.
A general physician is usually the first choice for people seeking medical attention. When a patient develops a serious condition, a general physician may refer him or her to a specialist.

General physicians often practice in private offices or clinics. In many cases, they are assisted by a small staff of nurses and administrators.